Girls Inc. Week 2016

This is the Real Me: The Power of Media Literacy

The 2016 Annual Girls Inc. Week, May 2-6, is dedicated to media awareness and countering stereotypes that limit girls and women. This year’s theme is part of our commitment to the White House, to follow up on its April 6 convening focused on gender stereotypes in the media and retail marketing.

From magazines to marketing campaigns, the media and retail industries bombards girls today with negative stereotypes and limiting images. These messages teach girls that their worth is tied to their appearance and can also shape their ideas about gender roles, sexual behavior, substance use, and violence.

Girls Inc. teaches girls to analyze critically what they see and hear in the media, to advocate for change in entertainment, news, and advertising, and to demand images that are more positive and reflective of their lives. Here are Girls Inc. tips for teaching girls to be media savvy.